Here are the top 10 Hollywood updates for July 26, 2025, featuring exciting releases, inspiring recoveries, and uplifting entertainment stories:
🎬 1. “Jurassic World: Rebirth” Roars into Theaters
Gareth Edwards’ dino-blockbuster (exec-produced by Spielberg) continues its global domination, starring Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali. David Koepp, writer of the original Jurassic Park, returned to pen this installment, praised for its fresh take on the franchise .
💙 2. Rihanna’s “The Smurfs: Harmony in Blue” Hits #1 Family Film
The animated musical, featuring Rihanna as Smurfette and new original songs, debuted strongly with voice talent including Nick Offerman, Octavia Spencer, and Kurt Russell. Its vibrant animation and catchy tunes are drawing packed family audiences .
🔪 3. “I Know What You Did Last Summer” Reboot Thrills Audiences
Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. reprise roles in this revival, joined by Gen-Z stars Madelyn Cline and Lola Tung. The suspense-thriller has sparked nostalgia while introducing the franchise to new fans .
🎭 4. Ari Aster’s “Eddington” Premieres to Critical Acclaim
Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal star in this pandemic-era thriller set in fictional Eddington, New Mexico. Critics praise its tense exploration of social divisions and standout performances .
🦸 5. MCU’s “Fantastic Four” Smashes Box Office Records
Marvel’s reboot starring Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards) and Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm) opened July 25, becoming 2025’s highest-grossing superhero debut. Its integration into the Multiverse Saga has fans speculating about future crossovers .
⛳ 6. “Happy Gilmore 2” Teaser Goes Viral
Adam Sandler’s golf-comedy sequel trailer, featuring Christopher McDonald’s return as Shooter McGavin and cameos from Bad Bunny and Travis Kelce, trended globally within hours of release .
🐺 7. “The Bad Guys 2” Announced with All-Female Villain Squad
DreamWorks confirmed the August 1 release of this animated sequel, where Sam Rockwell’s Mr. Wolf faces off against a new crew of female criminals. Awkwafina and Zazie Beetz join the voice cast .
🕵️ 8. Liam Neeson Shines in “Naked Gun” Revival
Early screenings praise Neeson’s comedic turn as bumbling detective Frank Drebin. Directed by Akiva Schaffer (The Lonely Island), the film blends slapstick with modern wit .
🔁 9. “Freaky Friday 2” Wraps Filming with Original Stars
Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan completed shooting for the sequel, joined by newcomers Manny Jacinto and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan. The film promises the same body-swap chaos with a Gen-Z twist .
⚾ 10. Barry Bonds’ Historic Home Run Plate Auction
The home plate from Bonds’ 756th career home run (breaking Hank Aaron’s record) is auctioned for an estimated $100,000. Proceeds benefit youth sports charities, with Bonds authenticating the memorabilia .
💫 Honorable Mentions
- Ben Askren’s Post-Surgery Recovery: The UFC star shared an optimistic health update, confirming doctors cleared him for a “full, active life” after lung transplant surgery .
- Charlie Wilson & El DeBarge’s “Cookout Tour”: The R&B legends announced a U.S. summer tour with Babyface and K-Ci Hailey, emphasizing “joy over drama” .
- Gwyneth Paltrow’s Astronomer PR Stunt: Paltrow humorously defended the telescope company after its kiss-cam scandal, creating viral buzz .
🌈 Verdict: Hollywood’s late-July lineup balances nostalgia, innovation, and heartwarming comebacks—proving 2025 is a banner year for uplifting entertainment.